We respect each other

We value diversity and celebrate difference. We want everyone who works at or for BT to feel able to be themselves. We know it's crucial that our people reflect the diversity of our communities and countries around the world.

And we know you expect that from us as well.

Our embrace of diversity and inclusion goes far beyond how we treat people within our company. The more diverse our company is, the more creative and innovative we will be and it’s that variety of experience, culture and background that inspires our teams to develop products and services which actually make a difference to everyone.

For us, diversity and inclusion are pivotal. Without them, we couldn’t fulfil our purpose: we connect for good.

Diversity and Inclusion Report 2021

‘The last year has shone a powerful light on issues of systemic racism, prejudice and discrimination. Like others, we’ve been forced to hold the mirror up to ourselves, as individuals and as a business, and ask what more we can do and to commit to being bolder in our approach’, says Philip Jansen, our Chief Executive.

Our first Diversity and Inclusion Report sets out exactly what we're doing to improve the situation. It details the approach we’re taking to embed equality and fairness in our business; our progress so far; and how we’re measuring up against our targets. 

What we’re doing today to make the difference

People Data Campaign

Our successful People Data Campaign, carried out in the summer of 2020, increased declaration rates across all characteristics. We’re now equipped with a more sophisticated understanding of our colleagues that allows us to identify the different experiences of diverse groups. 

Valuable 500

We’re proud signatories of the Valuable 500, supporting a global movement to put disability on the business leadership agenda, specifically ensuring that disability inclusion is on our board agenda.

Disability Rapid Action Plan

Our Disability Rapid Action Plan (DRAP) will provide additional focus and resource needed to accelerate the pace of progress and achieve better outcomes for our disabled colleagues.

Our People Networks and our allies

Our ten People Networks are inclusive and are open to all our colleagues: those who are members of a specific community and those who are allies. Each network works in collaboration with the business to promote equality, diversity and inclusion across our company. 

Allyship is important. We think of an ally as an advocate, supporter, and friend. Someone who stands up for their colleagues and helps to create an environment where people in specific communities feel included, accepted, and valued.

In our People Networks, and across the business, we’ve a growing ally base. 

• Able2 network
  We support all BT people affected by disability or long term health conditions.
• Armed Forces network
  We build on BT's proud tradition of supporting armed forces people; everyone is welcome to join the network, whether you're a veteran, reservist, family member or somebody who has an interest.
• Carers network
  Our aim is to connect and support people within the company who have caring responsibilities.
• Christian network
  We support Christians within BT and are happy to answer any questions that anyone has about the Christian faith.
• Ethnic diversity network
  We're helping make BT the best place to work, by supporting and engaging our workforce from diverse backgrounds.
• Gender equality network
  We're here to champion the value that people from differing backgrounds bring to BT and support them in realising their full potential.
• Jewish network
  We provide a social and support network for like-minded individuals and promote interfaith relations as well as inclusivity through social action, volunteering, and networking events.
• Muslim network
  We provide a platform for harnessing the talent of Muslims and our members across BT, by connecting to our people, business and communities. We are an inclusive and open community and welcome everyone across BT.
• Peer-to-Peer network
  We're a team of volunteers that helps our colleagues by talking – and listening – in confidence, to anyone who is looking for support with their mental health and wellbeing.
• Pride network
  This group is for LGBTQI+ people, allies and anyone who wants to support their LGBTQI+ colleagues and friends.

All our People Networks have elected chairs and co-chairs that lead their network. Each network has an executive sponsor who acts as an advocate for their network, contributing to the network’s direction, championing its purpose and work, and providing counsel.

Read some of our colleague stories